Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had emerged from the experience, such as increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
Flight Details
The self-operating spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The group of women also comprised experts in various fields.
The venture behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.
